Temperatures could reach triple digits this week

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Extreme, dangerous heat will grip the Midsouth for the next few days with high temperatures expected to reach into the triple digits.

The Shelby County Health Department says so far, this summer’s data shows that most Memphians have been staying safe, but don’t let the numbers fool you.

So far this year we have had no reported heat-related deaths, but Shelby County Health Department says deaths would not necessarily be reported until lab results are in, and that can take several weeks or months.

More heat leads to more warnings from the Shelby County Health Department that dangerous heat can be deadly.

A chart shows two heat-related deaths in the past five years. Shelby County Health Department explains the law does not require that they are reported to the Health Department, so they rely on ER data.

Le Bonheur emergency room doctors say water is key to beating the heat.

“The body has a marvelous way of cooling itself through perspiration and things like that. But if you don’t give it enough liquid, the body can’t do its job,” said Dr. Rudy Kink.

As the heat index surpassed 100 back in July, heat-related illnesses skyrocketed in the ER.

Data from last year compared to this summer show ER visits have increased drastically. Doctors are now warning to prepare for these warmer days ahead.

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